Broncos defensive end Robert Ayers (91) is congratulated by teammates after sacking Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) on Sunday.

Written by

Lindsay H. Jones
| USA TODAY Sports

Two years ago, the NFL world was wondering whether Peyton Manning might ever throw another pass. Even he wasn't sure.

Yet there were a gaggle of Mannings in a jubilant Denver Broncos' locker room on Sunday, celebrating the Broncos' 26-16 win in the AFC Championship and Manning's third trip to the Super Bowl. Manning now has a chance to win a second Super Bowl ring - his first with the Broncos and his first since undergoing four surgeries on his neck.

"Being in my 16th season, going to my third Super Bowl, I know how hard it is to get there," Manning said. ...